We have been working hard over the last few months planning some exciting new services for all you keen runners and cyclists out there. In the clinic we see a number of patients who sustain injuries through their sport which stops them from participating for a period of time. As physiotherapists we consider prevention just as important as treatment and so have decided to launch a new running service in January 2016, followed by a cycling package in May 2016.

Our new running prehablitation service will include a biomechanical assessment, a strength and conditioning class, bespoke running plans and a running group. We are also going to host evenings with guest speakers, including a nutritionist, a podiatrist and a sports psychologist.

RUNNERS…… Do you regularly get niggles or even injuries that stop you from being able to run the distance you want to run or do they slow you down? Would you like a full biomechanical assessment to help prevent injuries and improve your running style?

What is a biomechanical assessment?

A biomechanical assessment involves analysis of your running technique wwhich allows our expert physiotherapists to highlight errors in the way you move and problematic areas in your running gait. In addition to this our physiotherapists will assess joint and soft tissue movement, flexibility and strength; this is a series of movements that highlight mechanical faults that often cause running injuries. From this information we will develop a bespoke rehabilitation program including strength and conditioning, mobility/flexibility, running cues and running drills.

Who is a biomechanical assessment for?

This assessment is for any individual who enjoys running, long- or short-distance, who sustains recurrent niggles or wants to improve their running technique or performance.

Is there anything I should do before attending the appointment?

It is worth while to keep a running diary for up to 4 weeks before the assessment. Usually this can be done from memory and when booking the appointment you will be provided with a template to complete. Try not to make any changes to your running style or training pattern prior to this assessment.

How long does this assessment last?

This assessement will last 60 minutes, trainers and running clothes must be broght along to the appointment. The trainers should be your usual footwear when running.

Running Group

We will be starting a running group for all levels in the first week in January 2016, date to be confirmed soon. The meeting point will be at the clinic, entrance through 82 Gordon Street, you will be able to get changed and leave your belongings in the clinic and head off with a Jog Scotland qualified group leader and a another qualified physiotherapist. On completion of the run you are free to return to the clinic for some socialising where juice and a snack will be waiting.

Personalised running plans

Do you have ambition or desire to increase your running distance or speed, maybe you are considering competing in a 5k, 10k, half marathon or even a marathon, not sure how to go about safely and effectively increasing your distances to avoid injury. When not book in with one of our physiotherapists to discuss your requirements and create you a plan to meet your goals. This appointment will last 45 minutes and will involve 1-to-1 goal setting and a written training plan.

Strength and conditioning class

Most runners tend to enjoy one thing and one thing only….. running! They have no problem racking up the miles but neglect to look after the muscles that keep them running. It is important to encompase strength, condition and flexibility into your work out to avoid any unwanted injuries and to keep you balanced, make you stronger and faster. This 45 minute class will include specific exercises to target the key muscles involved in running, to improve core strength and general flexibility.

Cyclers…… don’t worry there will be a similar programme launching in 2016 and we will be in touch in the new year with more information on this.

If you have any questions or would like to book in for any of these services, please do not hesitate to contact us on 0141 2372 721 or email info@firstclassphysio.co.uk.